Arlington Public Library: Ofrenda Photo Submissions Now Open For Día De Los Muertos

Press release from Arlington Public Library:

September 01, 2021

The Arlington Public Library wants to honor those that are no longer with us this upcoming Día de los Muertos. We invite the community to submit photos of their loved ones for our ofrendas (altars). These photos will be added to our two ofrendas beginning Tuesday, Oct. 5, 2021. The ofrendas will be on display through Tuesday, Nov.2, 2021, at the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library and the East Library and Recreation Center. We also invite you to our Día de los Muertos Celebration, Thursday, Oct. 28, 2021, at the East Library and Recreation Center.

SUBMIT PHOTOS HERE

A holiday originating from Mexico, Día de Los Muertos is a two-day celebration that runs from Nov. 1 through Nov. 2. Día de los Muertos is a celebration that honors the life of those who have passed. On this day many pay their respects to friends and family by setting up ofrendas (altars) or visiting their gravesites.

It is believed that the gateway between the real world and spirit world opens during these days. On Nov. 1 it is believed that children come back as ‘Angelitos’ (angels) and on Nov. 2 ‘Difuntos’ (adults) show up to celebrate and pick up their ofrendas (offerings).

Many make an altar in their homes or at the cemetery. The altar usually consists of photos of loved ones, their favorite food, drinks, or personal items. Marigolds are always a must as they are believed to guide spirits back with their intense color and smell.

We invite you to submit your photos and to visit the participating libraries to view the ofrendas. Anyone can submit a photograph, these will be added by our librarians. If you have any questions please contact yuliana.aceves@arlingtontx.gov or lesley.hinojosa@arlingtontx.gov. Learn more about Día de los Muertos and find a curated list of items in our collection here.

This press release was produced by Arlington Public Library. The views expressed here are the author’s own.